Boost FLHA Engagement by Leading, Not Controlling

 

Construction safety officer recording FLHA details during emergency at worksite.

Let’s face it, Field Level Hazard Assessments often become just another form to fill out. But when they’re seen as a burden, not a tool, safety suffers.

Instead of enforcing more rules, shift your approach to one that builds trust, relevance, and participation.

1. Ask What’s Getting in the Way

Start with conversations, not corrections.

  • What’s frustrating about the current FLHA?
  • What parts feel like filler?
  • When do teams skip it and why?

The answers can point to real issues like time constraints, unclear expectations, or a disconnect with job realities.

2. Make the Process Count

If your FLHA doesn’t reflect actual worksite needs, it won’t be taken seriously. Review:

  • Are the questions practical and easy to understand?
  • Can the form be completed quickly, without delay?
  • Is feedback ever shared or acted on?

FLHAs gain value when they help prevent incidents, not just meet compliance.

3. Reinforce Success Stories

Control spots mistakes. Influence shares success.

  • Share real examples where FLHAs helped prevent harm
  • Highlight crews who consistently complete strong assessments
  • Use team meetings to talk about positive safety outcomes

These moments shift the mindset from “have to” to “want to.”

Safety professional conducting FLHA on digital device at refinery during shift change.

4. Let Crews Help Improve the System

When workers feel involved, they’re more likely to engage. Try:

  • Asking for feedback on how to simplify the form
  • Piloting a shorter version with one crew
  • Updating categories based on input from the field

Participation drives ownership and results.

5. Train Supervisors to Guide, Not Police

Supervisors can make or break FLHA engagement. Encourage them to:

  • Review FLHAs alongside the team
  • Ask open-ended questions to dig deeper
  • Offer feedback that supports, not scolds

A strong safety culture comes from leadership that supports, not supervises from a distance.

Construction workers discussing site hazards as part of daily FLHA process.

6. Use Smart Tech to Support Habits

Mobile-friendly, easy-to-use FLHA platforms can improve participation by:

  • Allowing quick entries from any device
  • Sending smart notifications
  • Elevating urgent hazards to the right people

Technology should enable better choices, not just track them.

Better Engagement = Safer Outcomes

If FLHAs feel like a formality, it’s time to change the approach. Focus on relevance, feedback, and involvement. That’s how you boost FLHA engagement.

Because when teams feel their input matters, safety becomes a shared goal, not just another checkbox.